US20200276604A1 - Colour change system for powder coating - Google Patents
Colour change system for powder coating Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20200276604A1 US20200276604A1 US16/646,915 US201816646915A US2020276604A1 US 20200276604 A1 US20200276604 A1 US 20200276604A1 US 201816646915 A US201816646915 A US 201816646915A US 2020276604 A1 US2020276604 A1 US 2020276604A1
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- Prior art keywords
- suction unit
- powder
- piece
- conduit
- air
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- 239000000843 powder Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 116
- 239000011248 coating agent Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 47
- 238000000576 coating method Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 47
- 230000008859 change Effects 0.000 title claims abstract description 35
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 49
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 22
- 238000013519 translation Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 22
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 3
- 239000000411 inducer Substances 0.000 claims description 18
- 238000007664 blowing Methods 0.000 claims description 14
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 7
- 230000014616 translation Effects 0.000 claims 10
- 239000003973 paint Substances 0.000 description 4
- 239000003086 colorant Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000000605 extraction Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000005243 fluidization Methods 0.000 description 3
- 229940098458 powder spray Drugs 0.000 description 3
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000007921 spray Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000003213 activating effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000009467 reduction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005507 spraying Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B12/00—Arrangements for controlling delivery; Arrangements for controlling the spray area
- B05B12/14—Arrangements for controlling delivery; Arrangements for controlling the spray area for supplying a selected one of a plurality of liquids or other fluent materials or several in selected proportions to a spray apparatus, e.g. to a single spray outlet
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B12/00—Arrangements for controlling delivery; Arrangements for controlling the spray area
- B05B12/14—Arrangements for controlling delivery; Arrangements for controlling the spray area for supplying a selected one of a plurality of liquids or other fluent materials or several in selected proportions to a spray apparatus, e.g. to a single spray outlet
- B05B12/149—Arrangements for controlling delivery; Arrangements for controlling the spray area for supplying a selected one of a plurality of liquids or other fluent materials or several in selected proportions to a spray apparatus, e.g. to a single spray outlet characterised by colour change manifolds or valves therefor
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B15/00—Details of spraying plant or spraying apparatus not otherwise provided for; Accessories
- B05B15/50—Arrangements for cleaning; Arrangements for preventing deposits, drying-out or blockage; Arrangements for detecting improper discharge caused by the presence of foreign matter
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B7/00—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
- B05B7/00—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas
- B05B7/14—Spraying apparatus for discharge of liquids or other fluent materials from two or more sources, e.g. of liquid and air, of powder and gas designed for spraying particulate materials
- B05B7/1404—Arrangements for supplying particulate material
- B05B7/1472—Powder extracted from a powder container in a direction substantially opposite to gravity by a suction device dipped into the powder
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05D—PROCESSES FOR APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
- B05D1/00—Processes for applying liquids or other fluent materials
- B05D1/02—Processes for applying liquids or other fluent materials performed by spraying
- B05D1/12—Applying particulate materials
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a colour change system for powder coating. More particularly the invention concerns a system for automatic change of a powder coating colour suitable for use with a hand operated or a robot-operated coating applicator.
- Powder coating is used extensively for coating components, often metal components, in a wide range of industries such as vehicle manufacturing.
- a coloured powder is supplied through a suitable conduit from a powder reservoir to an applicator, such as a spray gun.
- Powder coating is increasingly being carried out in automated production facilities, for example using robotically controlled applicators.
- robotically controlled applicators When different colours of coating are required, it has traditionally been necessary to use multiple different applicators, one for each different colour, because to change colour using the same applicator and conduit requires a time consuming cleaning operation. Having multiple different applicators and conduits for a robotically operated process adds significantly to the complexity and cost of the coating installation.
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,928,423 discloses a color-changing powder system for use in powder coating.
- the powder supply comprises a powder tank and a powder supply apparatus detachably connected to the power tank.
- the present invention has been conceived in light of the above.
- the invention provides a colour change system for a powder coating facility, comprising: a plurality of powder containers, each container holding one of a plurality of different coloured coating powders; a conduit for conveying powder from one of the powder containers to a coating applicator; a suction unit connected to the conduit and having an end-piece with an inlet opening into which coating powder is drawn; a cleaning unit; a translation mechanism for moving the end-piece of the conduit; and a controller.
- Each of the plurality of powder containers has one or more openings in an upper surface into which the end piece of the suction unit can be inserted.
- the cleaning unit has an opening for receiving the end piece of the suction unit.
- the controller is configured to effect a change of powder colour by controlling the translation mechanism to extract the end-piece of the conduit from a first powder container, to move the end piece of the conduit to the cleaning unit, and after cleaning to move the end piece to a second, different powder container and insert the end piece into the second container.
- the translation mechanism allows for an automated movement and cleaning of the powder spray delivery equipment between changes of colour, which provides a significant reduction in plant operating downtime.
- the translational mechanism may comprise mechanisms providing a vertical, or y-direction translation of the end piece, a first horizontal, or x-direction translation of the end-piece.
- the y-direction and x-direction movements may be independently controllable by the controller.
- the translational mechanism may comprise a third, or second horizontal, or z-direction, of movement of the end-piece, wherein the third direction movement moves the end-piece out of alignment with the openings in the upper surfaces of the powder containers.
- Each of the y-direction, x-direction and z-direction movements may be independently controllable by the controller.
- the translation mechanism may comprise at least one pneumatically operated cylinder.
- the cleaning mechanism may comprise a vertically oriented chamber for receiving the end piece of the suction unit through a top opening, a first air blowing arrangement for cleaning an outer surface of the conduit and a second air blowing arrangement for cleaning the insides of the suction unit and conduit.
- the first air blowing arrangement may comprise one or more nozzles through which air is blown into the chamber and over the outer surfaces of the suction unit, and an air outlet for removing air and powder removed off the outer surface of the conduit.
- the one or more nozzles may be located adjacent the top opening and the air outlet is located adjacent a bottom of the chamber.
- the second air blowing arrangement may comprise an air inlet for blowing air into the inlet opening of the suction unit.
- the second air blowing arrangement may be sufficiently strong to blow air through to the paint applicators (guns). This allows the paint passages of the paint applicators to be cleaned.
- the second air blowing arrangement may comprise a spring valve that is configured to be activated by contact from the end piece of the suction unit to open and permit air to be blown into the inlet of the suction unit.
- a means for providing suction may be connected to the air outlet.
- the suction unit may comprise an inducer in the end piece adjacent to the inlet opening of the suction unit.
- the inducer may comprise an air nozzle and a venturi tube section.
- the inducer may be located at one end of a tube that connects to the conduit and the suction unit further comprises a passage for compressed air to be provided to the inducer nozzle.
- the inlet of the suction unit may comprise a plurality of inlet channels leading from an exterior of the end piece to the inducer.
- the suction unit may further comprise an air duct for providing air to fluidise powder in the vicinity of the inlet opening.
- the invention provides a method of changing colour in a powder coating facility.
- the method comprises providing a colour changing apparatus comprising: a plurality of powder containers, each container holding one of a plurality of different coloured coating powders; a conduit for conveying powder from one of the powder containers to a coating applicator; a suction unit connected to the conduit and having an end-piece with an inlet opening into which coating powder is drawn; a cleaning unit; and a translation mechanism for moving the end-piece of the conduit.
- the method further comprises: extracting the end-piece of the suction unit from a first powder container; moving the suction unit to the cleaning unit; cleaning the suction unit and the conduit; after cleaning moving the suction unit to a second, different powder container, and inserting the end piece of the suction unit into the second container.
- the invention provides a colour change system for a powder coating facility.
- the system comprises: a plurality of powder containers, each container holding one of a plurality of different coloured coating powders; a conduit for conveying powder from one of the powder containers to a coating applicator; a suction unit connected to the conduit and having an end-piece with an inlet opening into which coating powder is drawn; and a translation mechanism configured to move the end-piece of the conduit from one container to another container.
- the suction unit comprises an inducer in the end piece adjacent to the inlet opening of the suction unit.
- FIG. 1 is an illustration of a powder coating facility employing a colour change system in accordance with embodiments of the invention.
- FIG. 2 shows more detail of the colour change system of the powder coating facility of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3 is a plan view of the colour change system of FIG. 2 .
- FIG. 4 a depicts a cleaning unit forming part of the colour change system of FIG. 2 .
- FIG. 4 b shows a sectioned view of the cleaning unit of FIG. 4 a.
- FIGS. 5 a and 5 b show elevation and cross-sectional views of a conventional powder suction unit.
- FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a an improved powder suction unit more suitable for use with embodiments of the powder colour change system of the invention.
- FIGS. 7 a and 7 b show elevation and cross-sectional views of the powder suction unit of FIG. 6 and a receiving piece of a cleaning unit.
- FIG. 1 there is shown a powder coating facility with a coating booth 10 inside which is a robotically operated powder spray applicator 12 , for applying a coating to a component 14 , which could, for example, be a body part of a vehicle.
- Powder is supplied to the applicator 12 from a powder unit 16 by means of a suction unit 18 through a conduit (not shown).
- Powder unit 16 and suction unit 18 are adapted as a colour change system, which will be described in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 2 to 4 .
- a controller 20 controls operation of the powder coating facility.
- FIG. 2 shows the powder unit 16 and suction unit 18 forming a colour change system embodiment.
- a frame 22 supports a number of powder containers 24 in the form of a line of boxes filled with powder, each container 24 containing a different colour of powder (five such containers are shown in FIG. 2 , but it will be appreciated that any number of such containers may be employed, depending on the number of different colours to be sprayed).
- the frame 22 is in the form of a steel structure, with the containers 24 mounted on a plate with vibration dampers 38 .
- a vibrator motor 26 is used to oscillate the boxes to prevent the powder compacting.
- a separate air supply may be provided to the containers 24 to fluidize the powder in the container that is supplying powder to the applicator 12 .
- Such containers may be referred to as fluid boxes, as distinct from standard boxes, which are not provided with separate fluidization.
- Each of the containers 24 has one or more openings 25 for receiving an inlet end of the suction unit 18 .
- the suction unit 18 connects to a powder delivery conduit 40 . Examples of the suction units are described in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 5 a , 5 b and 6 .
- the suction unit 18 is mounted to a translation mechanism. As shown, the suction unit 18 is attached to a vertical, or Y-Axis linear translator 30 for moving the suction unit 18 up and down in the vertical direction.
- the suction unit 18 is attached to the conduit 40 , which moves up and down with the suction unit 18 .
- the inlet end (not shown) of the suction unit 18 can be moved in and out of the containers 24 through the openings 25 .
- the suction unit 18 has an opening in its end into which powder can be drawn when it is lowered into a container 24 .
- the conduit 40 extends from the powder unit 16 to the spray applicator 12 in the coating booth 10 by way of flexible hoses (not shown).
- the Y-axis translator 30 including the attached suction unit 18 and conduit 40 can be moved horizontally using a horizontal or X-axis translator 28 .
- the X-axis translator 28 moves the suction unit 18 horizontally along the line of the containers 24 .
- a third, or Z-axis translator 32 is attached to the Y-axis translator 30 and moves the suction unit 18 in a third direction, out of alignment with the openings 25 on the containers 24 .
- the Y-axis translator 30 may include a pneumatically operated cylinder for effecting the linear movement in the up and down directions.
- the Y-axis translator may comprise any other suitable type of controllable linear actuator.
- the Z-axis translator 32 may comprise a linear actuator such as a pneumatic cylinder, although it will be appreciated that to move the end of the suction unit 18 as described could be performed with other types of actuators, such as a rotary actuator.
- the X-axis translator 28 could also employ a pneumatic cylinder for providing linear movement. However, it will be appreciated that the distance of movement required for the X-axis actuator could be much larger, especially if a large number of different colours and associated containers 24 are provided. In that case the X-axis translator could employ a motor driven mechanism, such as a belt or chain.
- FIG. 2 Also shown in FIG. 2 is a cleaning unit 34 that provides for cleaning of the suction unit 18 and conduit 40 between colour changes.
- the cleaning unit may also be used to clean the paint passages of the one or more applicator guns. More details of the cleaning unit and its operation are described below with reference to FIGS. 4 a and 4 b.
- FIG. 3 is a plan view showing the principal components of the powder unit 16 , and where equivalent components have the same reference numerals as shown in FIG. 2 .
- each of the containers 24 has been assigned a unique reference number— 24 a to 24 e .
- the suction unit 18 , Y-axis translator 30 and Z-axis translator 32 are shown in two different X-axis positions, one position is shown with solid lines and the other with broken lines. In the position with solid lines, the Y-axis translator is positioned with the suction unit directly in line with an opening 25 on the top of the container 24 d . In this position the end of the suction unit has entered the opening 25 by being vertically lowered into the container 24 by the Y-axis translator.
- the Y-axis translator In the broken line position the Y-axis translator is positioned in between openings 25 on containers 24 d and 24 e . In this position the Z-axis translator has moved the end of the suction unit 18 so that it extends beyond the openings 25 in the tops of the containers 24 .
- FIGS. 4 a and 4 b depict the cleaning unit 34 , which includes a vertical duct 50 with an open top 52 .
- the open top 52 may be provided with a gasket.
- the gasket is configured to contain overspray of powder that may otherwise occur due to the application of air.
- a first compressed air inlet 54 is provided close to the top 52 .
- An extraction duct 56 is attached along a lower part of one side of the duct 50 for connection to a suction device and filter (not shown).
- a conduit receiving piece 58 is attached to the bottom end of the duct 50 and is shaped to receive the end of the conduit 40 described above with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3 .
- the conduit receiving piece 58 is connected to second compressed air inlet 60 .
- FIGS. 5 a and 5 b show a conventional suction unit 70 , which is used in a generally vertical orientation as shown, and lowered into a container of coating powder.
- the suction unit 70 includes a central vertical tube 71 , which is surrounded by an annular air passage 72 . Air from a compressed air source is supplied to three connections 73 a , 73 b and 73 c . The air supplied to connection 73 a is fed to a nozzle 74 of an inducer 75 . The air supplied to the nozzle 74 enters the throat of a venturi section 76 and this creates a suction in the central vertical tube 71 to draw powder up the tube.
- the venturi section 76 has an outlet end 77 which feeds into a conduit (not shown) along which the powder is to be conveyed. Air supplied to the connection 73 b is also fed into the conduit as an additional flow for conveying the powder. Air supplied to the third connection 73 c passes down the annular passage 72 to an end plug 78 where the air exits. This air fluidizes the surrounding powder in the container into which the suction unit 70 has been lowered.
- the end plug 78 surrounds inlets 79 a , 79 b , 79 c distributed around the bottom end of the suction unit 70 and through which the powder is drawn up into the central tube 71 .
- the conventional suction unit 70 could be used in conjunction with the colour change system described above with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5 .
- the inducer 75 has to provide enough suction to lift powder up the entire height of the unit, which requires a large amount of energy in the compressed air leading to poor efficiency.
- the suction unit 70 employs additional fluidisation air to assist the drawing in of powder around the inlets 79 a/b/c because the amount of suction at the inlets 79 a/b/c is limited by the capacity of the inducer.
- the bottom end of the conduit 40 is lowered into the correct colour container 24 , such as container 24 d as shown in the solid line position of the conduit 40 , Y-axis translator 30 and Z-axis translator 32 in FIG. 3 .
- the containers 24 are vibrated by the vibrator 26 .
- embodiments may provide that air is supplied to the container 24 d to fluidize the powder therein.
- the suction unit 18 (see FIG. 2 ) draws powder into the conduit 40 , through its open end and this is conveyed along the conduit 40 to the applicator 12 .
- the air supplied to the first and second compressed air inlets is switched off, the Y-axis translator raises the conduit 40 out of the cleaning unit 34 , the Z-axis translator moves the end of the conduit out of alignment with the openings 25 and the X-axis translator moves the conduit (with the Y-axis translator, and Z-axis translator) to the position of the container 24 of the next colour to be used (for example container 24 b ).
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- Application Of Or Painting With Fluid Materials (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- The present invention relates to a colour change system for powder coating. More particularly the invention concerns a system for automatic change of a powder coating colour suitable for use with a hand operated or a robot-operated coating applicator.
- Powder coating is used extensively for coating components, often metal components, in a wide range of industries such as vehicle manufacturing. A coloured powder is supplied through a suitable conduit from a powder reservoir to an applicator, such as a spray gun. Powder coating is increasingly being carried out in automated production facilities, for example using robotically controlled applicators. When different colours of coating are required, it has traditionally been necessary to use multiple different applicators, one for each different colour, because to change colour using the same applicator and conduit requires a time consuming cleaning operation. Having multiple different applicators and conduits for a robotically operated process adds significantly to the complexity and cost of the coating installation.
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,928,423 discloses a color-changing powder system for use in powder coating. The powder supply comprises a powder tank and a powder supply apparatus detachably connected to the power tank.
- The present invention has been conceived in light of the above.
- In a first aspect the invention provides a colour change system for a powder coating facility, comprising: a plurality of powder containers, each container holding one of a plurality of different coloured coating powders; a conduit for conveying powder from one of the powder containers to a coating applicator; a suction unit connected to the conduit and having an end-piece with an inlet opening into which coating powder is drawn; a cleaning unit; a translation mechanism for moving the end-piece of the conduit; and a controller. Each of the plurality of powder containers has one or more openings in an upper surface into which the end piece of the suction unit can be inserted. The cleaning unit has an opening for receiving the end piece of the suction unit. The controller is configured to effect a change of powder colour by controlling the translation mechanism to extract the end-piece of the conduit from a first powder container, to move the end piece of the conduit to the cleaning unit, and after cleaning to move the end piece to a second, different powder container and insert the end piece into the second container.
- It is an advantage that the translation mechanism allows for an automated movement and cleaning of the powder spray delivery equipment between changes of colour, which provides a significant reduction in plant operating downtime.
- The translational mechanism may comprise mechanisms providing a vertical, or y-direction translation of the end piece, a first horizontal, or x-direction translation of the end-piece. The y-direction and x-direction movements may be independently controllable by the controller. The translational mechanism may comprise a third, or second horizontal, or z-direction, of movement of the end-piece, wherein the third direction movement moves the end-piece out of alignment with the openings in the upper surfaces of the powder containers. Each of the y-direction, x-direction and z-direction movements may be independently controllable by the controller. The translation mechanism may comprise at least one pneumatically operated cylinder.
- The cleaning mechanism may comprise a vertically oriented chamber for receiving the end piece of the suction unit through a top opening, a first air blowing arrangement for cleaning an outer surface of the conduit and a second air blowing arrangement for cleaning the insides of the suction unit and conduit. The first air blowing arrangement may comprise one or more nozzles through which air is blown into the chamber and over the outer surfaces of the suction unit, and an air outlet for removing air and powder removed off the outer surface of the conduit. The one or more nozzles may be located adjacent the top opening and the air outlet is located adjacent a bottom of the chamber. The second air blowing arrangement may comprise an air inlet for blowing air into the inlet opening of the suction unit. The second air blowing arrangement may be sufficiently strong to blow air through to the paint applicators (guns). This allows the paint passages of the paint applicators to be cleaned. The second air blowing arrangement may comprise a spring valve that is configured to be activated by contact from the end piece of the suction unit to open and permit air to be blown into the inlet of the suction unit. A means for providing suction may be connected to the air outlet.
- The suction unit may comprise an inducer in the end piece adjacent to the inlet opening of the suction unit. The inducer may comprise an air nozzle and a venturi tube section. The inducer may be located at one end of a tube that connects to the conduit and the suction unit further comprises a passage for compressed air to be provided to the inducer nozzle. The inlet of the suction unit may comprise a plurality of inlet channels leading from an exterior of the end piece to the inducer. The suction unit may further comprise an air duct for providing air to fluidise powder in the vicinity of the inlet opening.
- In a second aspect, the invention provides a method of changing colour in a powder coating facility. The method comprises providing a colour changing apparatus comprising: a plurality of powder containers, each container holding one of a plurality of different coloured coating powders; a conduit for conveying powder from one of the powder containers to a coating applicator; a suction unit connected to the conduit and having an end-piece with an inlet opening into which coating powder is drawn; a cleaning unit; and a translation mechanism for moving the end-piece of the conduit. The method further comprises: extracting the end-piece of the suction unit from a first powder container; moving the suction unit to the cleaning unit; cleaning the suction unit and the conduit; after cleaning moving the suction unit to a second, different powder container, and inserting the end piece of the suction unit into the second container.
- In a third aspect, the invention provides a colour change system for a powder coating facility. The system comprises: a plurality of powder containers, each container holding one of a plurality of different coloured coating powders; a conduit for conveying powder from one of the powder containers to a coating applicator; a suction unit connected to the conduit and having an end-piece with an inlet opening into which coating powder is drawn; and a translation mechanism configured to move the end-piece of the conduit from one container to another container. The suction unit comprises an inducer in the end piece adjacent to the inlet opening of the suction unit.
-
FIG. 1 is an illustration of a powder coating facility employing a colour change system in accordance with embodiments of the invention. -
FIG. 2 shows more detail of the colour change system of the powder coating facility ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 is a plan view of the colour change system ofFIG. 2 . -
FIG. 4a depicts a cleaning unit forming part of the colour change system ofFIG. 2 . -
FIG. 4b shows a sectioned view of the cleaning unit ofFIG. 4 a. -
FIGS. 5a and 5b show elevation and cross-sectional views of a conventional powder suction unit. -
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a an improved powder suction unit more suitable for use with embodiments of the powder colour change system of the invention. -
FIGS. 7a and 7b show elevation and cross-sectional views of the powder suction unit ofFIG. 6 and a receiving piece of a cleaning unit. - Referring to
FIG. 1 , there is shown a powder coating facility with acoating booth 10 inside which is a robotically operatedpowder spray applicator 12, for applying a coating to acomponent 14, which could, for example, be a body part of a vehicle. Powder is supplied to theapplicator 12 from apowder unit 16 by means of asuction unit 18 through a conduit (not shown).Powder unit 16 andsuction unit 18 are adapted as a colour change system, which will be described in more detail below with reference toFIGS. 2 to 4 . As shown inFIG. 1 , acontroller 20 controls operation of the powder coating facility. -
FIG. 2 shows thepowder unit 16 andsuction unit 18 forming a colour change system embodiment. Aframe 22 supports a number ofpowder containers 24 in the form of a line of boxes filled with powder, eachcontainer 24 containing a different colour of powder (five such containers are shown inFIG. 2 , but it will be appreciated that any number of such containers may be employed, depending on the number of different colours to be sprayed). Theframe 22 is in the form of a steel structure, with thecontainers 24 mounted on a plate withvibration dampers 38. Avibrator motor 26 is used to oscillate the boxes to prevent the powder compacting. A separate air supply may be provided to thecontainers 24 to fluidize the powder in the container that is supplying powder to theapplicator 12. Such containers may be referred to as fluid boxes, as distinct from standard boxes, which are not provided with separate fluidization. Each of thecontainers 24 has one ormore openings 25 for receiving an inlet end of thesuction unit 18. Thesuction unit 18 connects to apowder delivery conduit 40. Examples of the suction units are described in more detail below with reference toFIGS. 5a, 5b and 6. - The
suction unit 18 is mounted to a translation mechanism. As shown, thesuction unit 18 is attached to a vertical, or Y-Axislinear translator 30 for moving thesuction unit 18 up and down in the vertical direction. Thesuction unit 18 is attached to theconduit 40, which moves up and down with thesuction unit 18. The inlet end (not shown) of thesuction unit 18 can be moved in and out of thecontainers 24 through theopenings 25. Thesuction unit 18 has an opening in its end into which powder can be drawn when it is lowered into acontainer 24. Theconduit 40 extends from thepowder unit 16 to thespray applicator 12 in thecoating booth 10 by way of flexible hoses (not shown). The Y-axis translator 30, including the attachedsuction unit 18 andconduit 40 can be moved horizontally using a horizontal orX-axis translator 28. TheX-axis translator 28 moves thesuction unit 18 horizontally along the line of thecontainers 24. As shown herein, a third, or Z-axis translator 32 is attached to the Y-axis translator 30 and moves thesuction unit 18 in a third direction, out of alignment with theopenings 25 on thecontainers 24. - The Y-
axis translator 30 may include a pneumatically operated cylinder for effecting the linear movement in the up and down directions. Alternatively the Y-axis translator may comprise any other suitable type of controllable linear actuator. Similarly, the Z-axis translator 32 may comprise a linear actuator such as a pneumatic cylinder, although it will be appreciated that to move the end of thesuction unit 18 as described could be performed with other types of actuators, such as a rotary actuator. TheX-axis translator 28 could also employ a pneumatic cylinder for providing linear movement. However, it will be appreciated that the distance of movement required for the X-axis actuator could be much larger, especially if a large number of different colours and associatedcontainers 24 are provided. In that case the X-axis translator could employ a motor driven mechanism, such as a belt or chain. - Also shown in
FIG. 2 is acleaning unit 34 that provides for cleaning of thesuction unit 18 andconduit 40 between colour changes. The cleaning unit may also be used to clean the paint passages of the one or more applicator guns. More details of the cleaning unit and its operation are described below with reference toFIGS. 4a and 4 b. -
FIG. 3 is a plan view showing the principal components of thepowder unit 16, and where equivalent components have the same reference numerals as shown inFIG. 2 . InFIG. 3 each of thecontainers 24 has been assigned a unique reference number—24 a to 24 e. As shown inFIG. 3 thesuction unit 18, Y-axis translator 30 and Z-axis translator 32 are shown in two different X-axis positions, one position is shown with solid lines and the other with broken lines. In the position with solid lines, the Y-axis translator is positioned with the suction unit directly in line with anopening 25 on the top of thecontainer 24 d. In this position the end of the suction unit has entered theopening 25 by being vertically lowered into thecontainer 24 by the Y-axis translator. In the broken line position the Y-axis translator is positioned in betweenopenings 25 oncontainers suction unit 18 so that it extends beyond theopenings 25 in the tops of thecontainers 24. -
FIGS. 4a and 4b depict thecleaning unit 34, which includes avertical duct 50 with an open top 52. The open top 52 may be provided with a gasket. The gasket is configured to contain overspray of powder that may otherwise occur due to the application of air. A firstcompressed air inlet 54 is provided close to the top 52. Anextraction duct 56 is attached along a lower part of one side of theduct 50 for connection to a suction device and filter (not shown). Aconduit receiving piece 58 is attached to the bottom end of theduct 50 and is shaped to receive the end of theconduit 40 described above with reference toFIGS. 2 and 3 . Theconduit receiving piece 58 is connected to secondcompressed air inlet 60. -
FIGS. 5a and 5b show aconventional suction unit 70, which is used in a generally vertical orientation as shown, and lowered into a container of coating powder. Thesuction unit 70 includes a centralvertical tube 71, which is surrounded by anannular air passage 72. Air from a compressed air source is supplied to threeconnections connection 73 a is fed to anozzle 74 of aninducer 75. The air supplied to thenozzle 74 enters the throat of aventuri section 76 and this creates a suction in the centralvertical tube 71 to draw powder up the tube. Theventuri section 76 has anoutlet end 77 which feeds into a conduit (not shown) along which the powder is to be conveyed. Air supplied to theconnection 73 b is also fed into the conduit as an additional flow for conveying the powder. Air supplied to thethird connection 73 c passes down theannular passage 72 to anend plug 78 where the air exits. This air fluidizes the surrounding powder in the container into which thesuction unit 70 has been lowered. The end plug 78 surroundsinlets suction unit 70 and through which the powder is drawn up into thecentral tube 71. - The
conventional suction unit 70 could be used in conjunction with the colour change system described above with reference toFIGS. 1 to 5 . However, there are certain drawbacks with this design of suction unit. Firstly, theinducer 75 has to provide enough suction to lift powder up the entire height of the unit, which requires a large amount of energy in the compressed air leading to poor efficiency. Also, thesuction unit 70 employs additional fluidisation air to assist the drawing in of powder around theinlets 79 a/b/c because the amount of suction at theinlets 79 a/b/c is limited by the capacity of the inducer. -
FIG. 6 shows a cross-sectional elevation of animproved suction unit 80, which is particularly suitable for use with the colour change system described above with reference toFIGS. 1 to 5 . Thesuction unit 80 includes a centralvertical tube 81, which is surrounded by anarrow air passage 82 and afurther air duct 83. Air from a compressed air source is supplied to twoconnections connection 84 a is fed via theair duct 83 to anozzle 85 of aninducer 86, which is located close to the bottom end of thesuction unit 80. The air supplied to thenozzle 85 enters the throat of aventuri section 87. Theinducer 86 creates a suction, for drawing powder into the venturi section and blowing it on up thecentral tube 81. The powder is drawn in throughopenings 88 formed around abottom section 89 of thesuction unit 80. Powder drawn into thesuction unit 80 is blown up thecentral tube 81 to anoutlet end 90 which feeds into a conduit (not shown) along which the powder is to be conveyed. Air supplied to theconnection 84 b is also fed into the conduit as an additional flow for conveying the powder. Also shown inFIG. 6 is ascrew 84 c that is provided to hold the centralvertical tube 81 in place. -
FIGS. 7a and 7b show elevation and cross-sectional views of thepowder suction unit 80 ofFIG. 6 and a receivingpiece 100 of a cleaning unit, such as the receivingpiece 58 of thecleaning unit 34 ofFIGS. 4a and 4b . The receivingpiece 100 includes aconnection 101 for a cleaning fluid such as compressed air and aninternal valve member 102. Thevalve member 102 is biased by aspring 103 so as to urge thevalve member 102 into a closed position by virtue of avalve seat 104. The receivingpiece 100 also includes atop opening 105 into abore 106 for receiving the bottom end of thesuction unit 80. Thevalve member 102 has anend 107 that extends upwardly into thebore 106 when thevalve member 102 is in the closed position. When thesuction unit 80 is inserted into thebore 106 through the opening 105 (e.g. by being lowered into the cleaning unit by the translation mechanism of the colour change system as described above), the bottom end of thesuction unit 80 contacts theend 107 of thevalve member 102 and pushes it down against the action of thespring 103 to open the valve and allow the cleaning fluid to be blown through the valve and into thesuction unit 80 through theopenings 88. In this way the inner surfaces of thesuction unit 80 and ducting leading on to a powder spray applicator can be cleaned. - In use, when the powder coating applicator 12 (see
FIG. 1 ) is applying a colour of coating, the bottom end of theconduit 40 is lowered into thecorrect colour container 24, such ascontainer 24 d as shown in the solid line position of theconduit 40, Y-axis translator 30 and Z-axis translator 32 inFIG. 3 . Thecontainers 24 are vibrated by thevibrator 26. In addition, embodiments may provide that air is supplied to thecontainer 24 d to fluidize the powder therein. The suction unit 18 (seeFIG. 2 ) draws powder into theconduit 40, through its open end and this is conveyed along theconduit 40 to theapplicator 12. - When it is required to change the colour of the coating at the
applicator 12, thesuction unit 18,vibrator 26 and fluidization air supplied to thecontainer 24 d are switched off. The Y-axis translator 30 is activated to raise theconduit 40 out of thecontainer 24 d. The Z-axis translator is activated to move the end of theconduit 40 out of alignment with theopenings 25 in the tops of thecontainers 24. The X-axis translator then moves theconduit 40, together with Y-axis translator 30 and Z-axis translator 32, along to thecleaning unit 34. Note that during this movement the end of the conduit is moved across and above thecontainer 24 e, but because the end of theconduit 40 has been moved by the Z-axis translator it is not above theopenings 25 and any powder that drops off or out of theconduit 40 will not fall into thedifferent colour container 24 e through itsopening 25. - When the
conduit 40 has been moved to thecleaning unit 34, the Y-axis translator lowers the conduit into thecleaning unit 34 through the open top 52, and down until the end of theconduit 40 is positioned in the receivingpiece 58. Suction is provided to theextraction duct 56 and compressed air provided to the firstcompressed air inlet 54 for cleaning the outer surfaces of theconduit 40. This air is drawn down and out through theextraction duct 56. Compressed air is also provided to the secondcompressed air inlet 60 into theconduit receiving piece 58, which is shaped to direct the compressed air into the inside of theconduit 40. This air is blown along the entire length of theconduit 40 and out through theapplicator 12, cleaning both the inside surfaces of theconduit 40 and theapplicator 12. - Once cleaning has been completed, the air supplied to the first and second compressed air inlets is switched off, the Y-axis translator raises the
conduit 40 out of thecleaning unit 34, the Z-axis translator moves the end of the conduit out of alignment with theopenings 25 and the X-axis translator moves the conduit (with the Y-axis translator, and Z-axis translator) to the position of thecontainer 24 of the next colour to be used (forexample container 24 b). During this movement the end of the conduit is moved across and above thecontainers conduit 40 has been moved by the Z-axis translator it is not above theopenings 25 and any powder that drops off or out of theconduit 40 will not fall into the different colour containers through theiropenings 25. The Z-axis translator then moves theconduit 40 so that the end is directly above theopening 25 on thecontainer 24 b and the Y-axis translator lowers theconduit 40 into thecontainer 24 through theopening 25. Thevibrator 26 then restarts to vibrate thecontainers 24 and fluidising air is provided to thecontainer 24 b. Spray coating of the powder can then commence by activating thesuction unit 18 to deliver powder to theapplicator 12. - The examples above describe a system and method with a single end piece to be inserted into an opening of a powder container. It will be appreciated that the system may comprise any number of suction units, eg one, two or more suction units. For instance, a multiple gun system may comprise two or more suction units. Each powder container of a selected colour may comprise a corresponding number of openings, to allow each suction unit of a multiple gun system to be refilled at the same time.
Claims (17)
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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GB1714651.5A GB2566452A (en) | 2017-09-12 | 2017-09-12 | Colour change system for powder coating |
GB1714651 | 2017-09-12 | ||
GB1714651.5 | 2017-09-12 | ||
PCT/IB2018/056927 WO2019053590A1 (en) | 2017-09-12 | 2018-09-11 | Colour change system for powder coating |
Publications (2)
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US20200276604A1 true US20200276604A1 (en) | 2020-09-03 |
US11850614B2 US11850614B2 (en) | 2023-12-26 |
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US16/646,915 Active 2040-06-05 US11850614B2 (en) | 2017-09-12 | 2018-09-11 | Colour change system for powder coating |
Country Status (7)
Country | Link |
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US (1) | US11850614B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP3681643B1 (en) |
JP (2) | JP2020533160A (en) |
CN (1) | CN111315495A (en) |
GB (1) | GB2566452A (en) |
TW (1) | TW201912250A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2019053590A1 (en) |
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IT202100007592A1 (en) | 2021-03-29 | 2022-09-29 | Cefla Soc Cooperativa | SPRAY GUNS CLEANING STATION IN A PAINT BOOTH, AND METHOD OF USE |
Citations (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6699325B2 (en) * | 2001-01-13 | 2004-03-02 | Itw Gema Ag | Powder facility for spray-coating purposes |
US7074274B1 (en) * | 1999-09-17 | 2006-07-11 | Nordson Corporation | Quick color change powder coating system |
US20170136486A1 (en) * | 2014-06-24 | 2017-05-18 | Valco Cincinnati, Inc. | Reversible non-contact adhesive applicator dispenser |
Family Cites Families (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
JPH0663464A (en) * | 1992-08-20 | 1994-03-08 | Onoda Cement Co Ltd | Powder paint supply device |
DE4319726A1 (en) * | 1993-06-15 | 1994-12-22 | Gema Volstatic Ag | Powder conveyor |
JPH07313922A (en) * | 1994-05-24 | 1995-12-05 | I T M Kk | Air carrying powder supply device for replacement of color |
DE19538926A1 (en) | 1995-10-19 | 1997-04-24 | Gema Volstatic Ag | Powder coating device |
DE19941203A1 (en) * | 1999-08-30 | 2001-03-01 | R O T Gmbh Recycling Und Oberf | Automatic powder feed center |
US8567341B1 (en) * | 2008-03-31 | 2013-10-29 | Gema Switzerland Gmbh | Supply changing apparatus for powder coating systems |
DE102011004352B4 (en) * | 2011-02-18 | 2014-05-15 | Gema Switzerland Gmbh | Device for the pneumatic conveying of powder |
US20170159163A1 (en) * | 2012-07-06 | 2017-06-08 | Maschinenfabrik Reinhausen Gmbh | Plasma coating device and method for plasma coating of a substrate |
-
2017
- 2017-09-12 GB GB1714651.5A patent/GB2566452A/en not_active Withdrawn
-
2018
- 2018-09-11 EP EP18772911.6A patent/EP3681643B1/en active Active
- 2018-09-11 TW TW107131867A patent/TW201912250A/en unknown
- 2018-09-11 CN CN201880072064.9A patent/CN111315495A/en active Pending
- 2018-09-11 US US16/646,915 patent/US11850614B2/en active Active
- 2018-09-11 JP JP2020513610A patent/JP2020533160A/en active Pending
- 2018-09-11 WO PCT/IB2018/056927 patent/WO2019053590A1/en unknown
-
2023
- 2023-11-20 JP JP2023196518A patent/JP2024028713A/en active Pending
Patent Citations (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US7074274B1 (en) * | 1999-09-17 | 2006-07-11 | Nordson Corporation | Quick color change powder coating system |
US6699325B2 (en) * | 2001-01-13 | 2004-03-02 | Itw Gema Ag | Powder facility for spray-coating purposes |
US20170136486A1 (en) * | 2014-06-24 | 2017-05-18 | Valco Cincinnati, Inc. | Reversible non-contact adhesive applicator dispenser |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP3681643A1 (en) | 2020-07-22 |
WO2019053590A1 (en) | 2019-03-21 |
TW201912250A (en) | 2019-04-01 |
CN111315495A (en) | 2020-06-19 |
GB2566452A (en) | 2019-03-20 |
US11850614B2 (en) | 2023-12-26 |
EP3681643B1 (en) | 2023-07-19 |
JP2020533160A (en) | 2020-11-19 |
JP2024028713A (en) | 2024-03-05 |
GB201714651D0 (en) | 2017-10-25 |
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